Intern/Co-op

Research, Innovation & Design Co-op Summer 2026

Locations: VA Richmond Innovation Design Ctr

Employment Type: Full Time

Relocation Support: Yes

Research & Design Team Overview

The Research & Design team is the creative engine that takes action to solve problems based on customer requests, operational improvements, and market opportunities. This opportunity offers:

• A fast-paced and collaborative work environment driving sustainable packaging innovation for the beverage industry
• Exposure to a range of different functions and opportunity to work with a diverse set of colleagues globally

Summary: The Intern/Co-op is a student or recent graduate learning about Smurfit Westrock and the packaging industry, while developing real-world design experience. A motivated problem solver, the Intern/Co-op is eager to support the Design team. This role has the support and guidance of Associate Designers, Design Leads, Senior Designers and Leadership and is expected to work independently, stay organized, communicate well, and demonstrate effective time management. Most often this is a recent graduate from an Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Packaging Science program or similar.

Skills

• Gaining proficiency in Artios CAD, SolidWorks 3D and Adobe Suite preferred. Professional proficiency of Microsoft Office products Power Point, Word, Excel required.
• Advanced ability to understand 3D concepts
• Proficiency in operation of equipment including CAD Tables and 3D printers
• Ability to support the execution of graphic visuals, packaging layouts, mockups and marketing collateral with direction from teammates and Design Manager. Understands basic print processes and mock-up production workflow, including preparing files for Roland printing.
• Interest in carton manufacturing processes, Consumer Packaged Goods production processes, supply chains, automation and/or fit-for-use testing
• Creative design generation: active participation in design ideation to support customer or platform innovation projects

Behaviors

• You promote and uphold a safe, inclusive, customer-obsessed, collaborative, and high-performance team culture
• You have a learning mindset and are eager to tackle complex tasks independently after initial introduction
• You are accountable to the business stakeholders not only for excellent outcomes
• You work well independently and within team environments
• You have excellent communication skills both verbally and in writing
• You're a planner. You are extremely organized, diligent and have a positive attitude to take on and execute projects and requests accurately and in a timely manner
• You can manage a dynamic workload, prioritize and delegate to excel in a fast-paced environment

Other Qualifications

• Completing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in industrial design, Packaging Design, Graphic Design, Design Engineering or specialized Engineering Degree based in mechanical engineering disciplines from an accredited institution is preferred
• Ability to bend, reach and frequently lift items up to 5 pounds and occasionally lift to 50 lbs.

What We Offer

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.